Compare Life Insurance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Homeowner Faces Setback in Sinkhole Saga

Homeowner Faces Setback in Sinkhole Saga

A homeowner’s request for compensation after discovering a large pit on his property was denied when it was revealed to be a decommissioned well, rather than a sinkhole.

The deep pit, which measured 4.5 meters, appeared beneath pavers just 1.5 meters away from the house in August 2022.

The homeowner contacted QBE insurance to lodge a claim, prompting the insurer to send a team to cordon off the affected area for safety.

The homeowner argued that the pit had been formed by a leaking pipe and believed the visible water flow at the bottom was evidence of such. He suggested that the water leak had caused soil erosion, exacerbating the formation of the pit.

In response, QBE appointed a forensic structural engineer to investigate. The engineer, assisted by a plumber, conducted several tests and authored three reports on their findings.

The investigation concluded that the pit resulted from the collapse of a well capping that had been in place for over five decades, predating the home's construction according to the neighborhood residents' accounts.

According to the engineer, the old well capping had eroded over time, explaining the presence of water at the base. Nearby sewer and stormwater pipes were examined, and it was found that water flow into the pit had been consistent. A sewer pipe leakage, identified approximately 19 meters from the pit, was determined to be too far away to contribute to its formation.

No legal or physical connection was determined to link the sewer leakage or any nearby pipes to the well's deterioration. The plumber validated the engineer's conclusions, confirming a lack of nearby pipe networks capable of forming a sinkhole.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) later ruled in favor of QBE, citing comprehensive evidence provided by the engineer. The findings firmly established that the pit was a disused well, lacking any evident links to a leaking sewer or other leaks.

AFCA endorsed, "The expert evidence substantiates that the pit originates from a long-decommissioned well existing before the complainant’s house was built. Despite extensive testing, the results indicate no connection between any pipe leaks and the pit’s formation, the water at its base, or the erosion observed."

Though QBE did agree to compensate for incidental damages done during the examination process, including $1122 for the damage to the homeowner’s timber deck and an additional $1500 for the delays in processing the claim, which took over six months.

This case, initially reported by insurancenews.com.au, underscores the critical role of thorough expert investigation to differentiate between naturally occurring subsidence and structural failures caused by other factors.

Published:Wednesday, 10th Jul 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Asbestos Scare Leaves Hospitality Business Uninsured Asbestos Scare Leaves Hospitality Business Uninsured
04 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The discovery of asbestos-contaminated mulch in a Sydney park led to the cancellation of a festival, resulting in significant financial losses for a hospitality business. Despite these setbacks, the company's claim for coverage under its business interruption (BI) policy was rejected. - read more
Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a groundbreaking decision by the NSW Personal Injury Commission, an insurer has been directed to cover the costs of dog walking services for a car crash victim. The commission ruled that these services classify as domestic assistance under the state’s Motor Accident Injuries Act. This case could pave the way for broader interpretations of 'attendant care services' for claimants. - read more
Extreme Weather Drives $1.8 Billion in First Half Losses for Australian Insurers Extreme Weather Drives $1.8 Billion in First Half Losses for Australian Insurers
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Extreme weather events in Australia have resulted in significant financial impacts for insurers, tallying $1.83 billion in losses during the first half of the year. This comes as insurance companies gear up for further claims linked to ongoing severe weather in New South Wales. - read more
ClearView Names New Underwriting Head Amidst Strategic Changes ClearView Names New Underwriting Head Amidst Strategic Changes
30 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

ASX-listed life insurer ClearView has announced the appointment of Peter Tilocca as Head of Underwriting, coinciding with key updates to its underwriting standards and definitions. Tilocca's extensive two-decade career in Australian underwriting includes leadership roles at Zurich, Noble Oak, One Path Life, and RGA Australia. His new role with ClearView commenced on 30 June. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

Why Income Protection Insurance is Vital for Your Financial Security Why Income Protection Insurance is Vital for Your Financial Security
Income protection insurance is a type of coverage that provides you with a financial safety net in case you are unable to work due to illness or injury. It typically pays up to 75% of your regular salary, helping you to continue meeting your financial obligations during difficult times. - read more
The Ultimate Guide to Comparing Health Insurance Plans in Australia The Ultimate Guide to Comparing Health Insurance Plans in Australia
Australia is renowned for its iconic landmarks, diverse ecosystems, and robust healthcare system. While the public healthcare system, Medicare, provides essential health services, it might not cover everything. The allure of private health coverage lies in its promise of broader options, reduced wait times, and coverage for services not included in Medicare, like dental and optical care. - read more
How Accidental Income Protection Insurance Can Provide Peace of Mind How Accidental Income Protection Insurance Can Provide Peace of Mind
Accidental income protection insurance is a type of policy that provides financial support if you are unable to work due to an accident. Unlike regular income protection insurance, which can cover illnesses and injuries, this specific insurance focuses solely on accidents. - read more
The Impact of Health and Medical History on Insurance Premiums The Impact of Health and Medical History on Insurance Premiums
Life insurance is a critical component of a sound financial plan. It provides financial security and peace of mind to you and your loved ones, ensuring that they are taken care of in the event of your untimely death. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:


All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Occupational Hazard:
A risk associated with the nature of a particular occupation, which may affect insurance premiums.